Pyrazinamide

Pyrazinamide is an approved oral anti-tuberculosis drug used in combination regimens. It is used to prevent and to treat tuberculosis.

Side-effects include hepatitis, gastrointestinal upsets, rash and gout.

Pyrazinamide should not be prescribed to people who have a history of liver impairment. The risk of severe liver damage in HIV-negative patients has led United States drug regulation authorities to recommend that the combination of pyrazinamide and rifampicin (Rifadin / Rimactane) should not be offered to patients. However, the risk of liver damage may be lower in people infected with HIV.1

Pyrazinamide does not interact with any currently available protease inhibitors or non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs).

Patients taking pyrazinamide should drink plenty of fluids.

Pyrazinamide is manufactured by Merck Sharp & Dohme Ltd under the trade name Zinamide.

References

  1. Gordin FM et al. Hepatotoxicity of rifampin and pyrazinamide in the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection in HIV-infected persons: is it different than in HIV-uninfected persons? Clin Infect Dis 39: 561-565, 2004

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Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

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We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.